Mousehole Assembly for Manipulating Tubulars for Subterranean Operations

ABSTRACT

A system for manipulating tubulars for subterranean operations includes a mousehole assembly having a cavity including a first mousehole, a second mousehole spaced apart from the first mousehole, a mechanism configured to change a position of at least one of the first mousehole and second mousehole within the cavity.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The following is generally directed to a system for manipulatingtubulars for subterranean operations, and more particularly, a mouseholeassembly for manipulating tubulars.

BACKGROUND ART

Drilling for oil and gas with a rotary drilling rigs is being undertakento increasingly greater depths both offshore and on land, and is anincreasingly expensive operation given the demands to search forresources deeper into the earth, which translates into longer drillingtime. In fact, it has been recently estimated that the costs to operatesome rigs can exceed nearly half a million dollars per day. Thus a heavyemphasis is placed on procedures for reducing delays in the drillingoperation.

Currently, one of the most regular delays in the drilling operation isthe extension of the drill string. When a small part of the tubularstring extends above the drilling deck, additional tubulars must bemoved from a storage rack and connected with the upper end of thetubular string to continue drilling to greater depths. Today, top driverotary systems are most often used in place of other, older technology(e.g., a rotary table to turn the drill string), because it allows therig to utilize pre-assembled tubular stands. The creation and handlingof tubular stands, independently of the drilling process, is apotentially important way to save time and money, since multiple stringsof tubulars can be assembled offline which can cause less delays to theactual drilling operation.

Previous systems of handling tubulars and creating stands whileconducting drilling operations have been described. See, for example,U.S. Pat. No. 4,850,439. However, such systems generally rely upon ahoist to lift the tubular and lack features to ensure the safety of theworkers. Other systems utilized in manipulating tubulars have beendisclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,976,540, U.S. Pat. No. 4,834,604, U.S. Pub.No. 2006/0151215, and U.S. Pat. No. 6,220,607. Generally, these handlingsystems, are heavy, costly, and consume a large amount of space.Moreover, these systems generally require significant human physicalcontact with the tubulars and lifting equipment at numerous times andlocations, which can result in costly delay or possible injury. Thealignment and transfer operations are lengthy and complex and the pathsof the tubulars in the offline stand building are not fully restricted,which creates delay and safety hazards.

The industry continues to demand improvements in drilling technologies.

SUMMARY

According to a first aspect, a system for use in subterranean operationscan include a mousehole assembly having a cavity including a firstmousehole, a second mousehole spaced apart from the first mousehole, anda mechanism configured to change a position of at least one of the firstmousehole and second mousehole within the cavity.

In another aspect, a system for use in in subterranean operations caninclude a mousehole assembly having a first position and a secondposition, the mousehole assembly further including a first mousehole anda second mousehole different from each other, wherein in the firstposition the first mousehole can define a first central axis and in thesecond position the first mousehole can define a second central axisdifferent than the first central axis.

For yet another aspect, a system for use in subterranean operations caninclude a predetermined vertical axis configured to be associated with alongitudinal axis of a tubular, and a mousehole assembly having at leasta first mousehole and a second mousehole, wherein the mousehole assemblycan be configured to selectively move and align one of a first centralaxis of the first mousehole and the second central axis of the secondmousehole with the predetermined vertical axis.

In certain embodiments, the mousehole assembly can include a cavity in arig floor and a mousehole structure having the first mousehole andsecond mousehole. In particular instances, the mousehole structure canbe configured to be moved with the cavity. In one embodiment, the firstmousehole and the second mousehole can be configured to be movedsimultaneously with respect to each other. For example, at least aportion of the mousehole assembly, including for example, the mouseholestructure can be configured to translate a distance of at least about0.1 (CL), wherein CL represents a length of the cavity, at least about0.2 (CL), at least about 0.3 (CL) at least about 0.4 (CL), at leastabout 0.5 (CL).

The mousehole assembly comprises at least one actuator configured tomove at least a portion of the mousehole, wherein the actuator isconfigured to selectively move a mousehole structure comprising thefirst mousehole and the second mousehole from a first position to asecond position within the cavity. In on embodiment, at least a portionof the mousehole assembly is configured to have relative movement to asurface in a work zone, the relative movement including at least one ofrotation, translation, and a combination thereof.

In another aspect, the mousehole assembly can be disposed within a workzone, and wherein the mousehole assembly is configured to be operated byan operator in an operator zone spaced apart from the work zone. For oneparticular embodiment, the mousehole assembly can be configured to becontrolled from an operator zone via an input module, wherein the inputmodule includes at least one device selected from the group consistingof a control column, a joystick, an analog device, a digital device, apotentiometer, a variable resistor, a gyroscope, and a combinationthereof. For another embodiment, the mousehole assembly is configured tohave controlled movement operated as an automated system.

The mousehole assembly can include a cover configured to cover a portionof the cavity, wherein the cover is configured to be moved between afirst position and a second position. The cover can be configured to bemoveable between a first position and a second position relative to afirst position and second position of the mousehole assembly.

In another aspect, at least a portion of the mousehole assembly caninclude a first position, wherein the first mousehole is aligned with apredetermined vertical axis and a second position, wherein the firstmousehole is displaced a distance from the predetermined vertical axis.In the second position, the second mousehole can be aligned with thepredetermined vertical axis, wherein in the first position the secondmousehole is displaced a distance from the predetermined vertical axis.

For at least one embodiment, the first mousehole can define a firstopening and the second mousehole can define a second opening, whereinthe first opening and the second opening are substantially similar.

According to a particular embodiment, the first mousehole comprises afirst sensor configured to detect a size of a tubular configured to bedisposed within the first mousehole. In another embodiment, the firstmousehole can be configured to adapt to tubulars of different sizes,wherein the first mousehole comprises a first opening positionconfigured for a first tubular having a first diameter and a secondopening position configured for a second tubular having a seconddiameter different than the first diameter. Furthermore, the secondmousehole can include a second sensor configured to detect a size of atubular configured to be disposed within the second mousehole. Forexample, in one instance, the second mousehole can be configured toadapt to tubulars of different sizes, wherein the second mouseholecomprises a second opening position configured for a first tubularhaving a first diameter and a second opening position configured for asecond tubular having a second diameter different than the firstdiameter.

According to one aspect, the mousehole assembly can include a sensorconfigured to detect an alignment between a predetermined vertical axisand a first central axis of the first mousehole. Moreover, at least aportion of the mousehole assembly can be configured to change a positionbased on a signal comprising alignment data from the sensor.Furthermore, in one instance, at least a portion of the mouseholeassembly can include a sensor configured to detect an alignment betweena predetermined vertical axis and a second central axis of the secondmousehole, wherein the mousehole assembly can be configured to change aposition based on a signal comprising alignment data from the sensor.

In another embodiment, the first mousehole can have a first rabbitextending vertically downward from a first opening defined by the firstmousehole. The first rabbit can include a vessel configured to receive atubular, wherein the first rabbit can be connected to the firstmousehole and configured to be moved between a first position and asecond position. Moreover, in another embodiment, the second mouseholecan include a second rabbit extending vertically downward from a secondopening defined by the second mousehole. The second rabbit can include avessel configured to receive a tubular, wherein the second rabbit can beconnected to the second mousehole and configured to be moved between afirst position and a second position. In one particular embodiment, thefirst mousehole can include a first rabbit, wherein the first rabbit isconfigured to change length. The first rabbit can have a first lengthand a second length different than the first length, wherein the firstlength is adapted for a first tubular having a first length and thesecond length is adapted for a second tubular having a second length,and wherein the first rabbit is configured to change dimensions tocontrol an exposure length of the tubular above an upper surface of themousehole assembly. Moreover, the second mousehole can include a secondrabbit, wherein the second rabbit is moveable with the second mousehole.According to one embodiment, the second rabbit can be connected to asecond opening of the second mousehole, wherein the first rabbit can beconfigured to change length, including for example, the first rabbit canhave a first length and a second length different than the first length,and wherein the second rabbit is configured to change dimensions tocontrol an exposure length of the tubular above an upper surface of themousehole assembly.

In one aspect, at a first time the first mousehole can be at the firstposition and at a second time different than the first time, the firstmousehole can be at the second position different than the firstposition. More particularly, in certain instances, at a first time thefirst mousehole can be aligned with a predetermined vertical axisassociated with a longitudinal axis of a first tubular and configured toreceive the first tubular, and wherein at a second time, the firstmousehole is displaced a distance from the predetermined vertical axisand the second mousehole can be aligned with the predetermined verticalaxis associated with a longitudinal axis of a second tubular andconfigured to receive the second tubular. According to one embodiment,the first mousehole of the mousehole assembly can be configured toreceive a first tubular, and the second mousehole of the mouseholeassembly can be configured to receive a second tubular while the firsttubular is in the first mousehole.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present disclosure may be better understood, and its numerousfeatures and advantages made apparent to those skilled in the art byreferencing the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1A includes a side view of a system for use in subterraneanoperations, including a tubular lift system in accordance with anembodiment.

FIG. 1B includes a plan view of a system for use in subterraneanoperations, including a tubular lift system in accordance with anembodiment.

FIG. 2A includes illustrations of tubulars in accordance with anembodiment.

FIG. 2B includes an illustration of a portion of a tubular in accordancewith an embodiment.

FIG. 2C includes an illustration of a portion of a tubular in accordancewith an embodiment.

FIG. 2D includes an illustration of a tubular in accordance with anembodiment.

FIGS. 3A-3F include perspective view illustrations of an engagement headand mousehole assembly in accordance with embodiments.

FIG. 4 includes a cross-sectional view illustration of a portion of amousehole assembly in accordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 5A includes a perspective view illustration of a grip head inaccordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 5B includes a top view illustration of a portion of a grip head inan open position in accordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 5C includes a top view illustration of grip head engaging a tubularin accordance with an embodiment.

FIGS. 6A-6K include schematic illustrations of a system for manipulatingtubulars for a subterranean operation in accordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 7A includes an illustration of a portion of a stabilizer inaccordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 7B includes an illustration of a portion of a stabilizer inaccordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 8 includes an illustration of a tubular in a stabilized state and acontrolled angular variation in accordance with an embodiment.

The use of the same reference symbols in different drawings indicatessimilar or identical items.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT(S)

The following is directed to systems for manipulating tubulars forsubterranean operations, including but not limited to drillingoperations directed to resources such as natural gas and oil. Thepresent embodiments include description of one or more components of asystem that may be employed in various stand-building processes. Thepresent embodiments may be utilized one land or on water. In certaininstances, the components, systems, and processes described herein maybe utilized in off-shore drilling operations, particularly on jack-uprigs that generally have limited space to conduct operations.

FIG. 1A includes a side view of a system for manipulating tubulars foruse in subterranean operations in accordance with an embodiment. Inparticular, the system 100 can include a derrick 101 extending from adrill floor 103 and configured to be a structure for supporting certaintools to conduct the subterranean operations. The drill floor 103 may besuspended above the earth as a structure to support the tools utilizedin the drilling operation. As further illustrated, the system 100 caninclude a bore hole 104 or an opening in the drill floor 103 providingsuitable access to the earth and natural materials beneath the earth'ssurface.

As further illustrated, the system 100 can include a pipe loader 105that may be a machine configured to grab tubulars 107 from a storagelocation and place them on a pipe pusher 106. The pipe pusher 106 can beconfigured to move the tubular 107 from the pipe loader 105 to a tubularlift system 130 located on the drill floor 103. As illustrated, thetubular lift system 130 may be used to organize and combine one or moretubulars, and in particular, can be used in the formation of stands(i.e., a plurality of tubulars connected together). The tubular liftsystem 130 can be a remote-controlled tubular lift system (RCTLS). Thetubular lift system 130 can include a stabilizer 111, which may beutilized to position the tubular 107 into an initial position forengagement with an engagement head 109.

The engagement head 109 may manipulate the tubular 107 from asubstantially horizontal position to a substantially vertical positionto facilitate forming a stand of tubulars which may be stored in a rack115. The tubulars placed in the rack 115 may be later engaged andbrought to well center 188 by a griphead 114 that may facilitate theiruse in the down hole, drilling operation. As further illustrated, thetubular lift system 130 may include an iron roughneck 112, which may beutilized to facilitate joining of the tubulars and formation of stands.Furthermore, the tubular lift system 130 may include an engagement headtower 108 along which an engagement head 109 may be translated tofacilitate a change in position of the tubular 107 from a substantiallyhorizontal position to a substantially vertical position. The tubularlift system 130 may include an operator cab 110 that is configured tohouse an operator controlling one or more of the components of thetubular lift system 130.

FIG. 1B includes a top view of a system for manipulation of tubulars forthe subterranean operation in accordance with an embodiment. As furtherillustrated in the top view, the drill floor 103 can include a work zone131, and the work zone 131 can include components of the tubular liftsystem 130, including but not limited to, the stabilizer 111, themousehole assembly 113, the engagement head 109, the engagement headtower 108, and the iron roughneck 112. The drill floor 103 may furtherinclude an operator zone 132 spaced away from the work zone 131 andconfigured to house a controller or operator. The operator cab 110 canbe disposed within the operator zone 132, and the operator can controlmovement of one or more components of the tubular lift system 130 fromthe operator zone 132. Furthermore, the operator zone 132 may include aninput module configured to facilitate control of one or more componentsof the tubular lift system 130. Some exemplary input modules that may beutilized herein can include devices such as a control column, ajoystick, an analog device, a digital device, a potentiometer, avariable resistor, a gyroscope, and a combination thereof.

In accordance with one particular embodiment, the tubular lift system130 can be a remote-controlled operation, configured to allow anoperator to be remotely located relative to the work zone 131. Forexample, any of the components of the tubular lift system 130 of theembodiments herein can be remote-controlled, and in particular, may becontrolled by operation of one or more input modules to guide andcontrol movement of the components by an operator in the operator zone132 spaced apart from the work zone 131. The operator can be containedwithin an operator zone 132 and spaced away from the work zone 131, thusreducing the likelihood of injury to the operator. Moreover, any of thecomponents or all of the components of the tubular lift system 130 maybe fully automated, such that an entire stand-building operation can becontrolled by actuation of a single switch.

FIG. 2A includes an illustration of various tubulars that may beutilized with respect to the tubular lift system of the embodimentsherein. The term “tubular” as used herein means all forms of pipe,including but not limited to, heavy weight drill pipe, such asHEVI-WATE™ tubulars, casing, drill collars, liner, bottom holeassemblies, and other types of tubulars known in the art. HEVI-WATE™ isa registered trademark of Smith International, Inc. of Houston, Tex. Forexample, some suitable tubulars can include drill pipes, including forexample, a single drill pipe 201, which may have an average length ofapproximately 30 feet. Additionally, drill pipes may be joined togetherat a tool joint to form a double 202. Furthermore, multiple drill pipesincluding for example three or more drill pipes can be joined togetherto form a stand 203. In one particular embodiment, a combination of atleast four drill pipes may be referred to as a fourble.

As further illustrated, the drill pipes can have a particular tool jointthat may be utilized for joining two drill pipes together. For example,the tool joint 205 may include an enlarged end portion 208, commonlyreferred to as a box. The enlarged end portion 208 may be joined to acentral portion 207 having a smaller external diameter connected by atapered surface 206, which can define a portion of the proximal endregion of the tubular. As will be further appreciated, joining of thepipes may be facilitated by a threaded engagement. Furthermore, one endof the tubular may have a female connection with a threaded surfaceextending into the interior of the tubular, while the opposite end ofthe tubular may have a male joint having a threaded portion extendingfrom the interior of the tool joint.

In accordance with one embodiment, a tubular may include a proximal endregion that can be spaced away from a center of gravity of the tubular.In accordance with an embodiment, the proximal end region can be definedas a region that is spaced away from the center of gravity by at leastabout 0.2 (l), wherein l is the length of the tubular. Referring brieflyto FIG. 2D, an illustration of a tubular is provided. As illustrated,the tubular can include a center of gravity 250 and a length l. Asfurther illustrated, the tubular can include a proximal end region 252,which is spaced a distance 251 from the center of gravity 250 of thetubular. The distance 251 can be at least 0.2 (l) away from the centerof gravity 250. In other embodiments, the proximal end region 252 can bespaced a distance 251 from the center of gravity, including for exampleat least about 0.25 (l), at least about 0.3 (l), at least about 0.35(l), at least about 0.4 (l), or even at least about 0.42 (l). Still, itwill be appreciated that in certain instances, the proximal end region252 may be spaced apart from and non-intersecting a proximal terminatingend 253 of the tubular, such that the distance 251 is not greater thanabout 0.5 (l), not greater than about 0.49 (l), or even not greater thanabout 0.48 (l). It will be appreciated that the distance 251 can bewithin a range between any of the minimum and maximum values notedabove.

As further illustrated in FIG. 2D, the tubular can have a distal endregion 262 spaced a distance 257 from the center of gravity 250.According to one embodiment, the distance 257 can be at least 0.2 (l)away from the center of gravity 250. In other embodiments, the distalend region 262 can be spaced a distance 257 from the center of gravity250 of at least about 0.25 (l), at least about 0.3 (l), at least about0.35 (l), at least about 0.4 (l), or even at least about 0.42 (l).Still, it will be appreciated that in certain instances, the distal endregion 262 may be spaced apart from and non-intersecting a distalterminating end 263 of the tubular, such that the distance 257 is notgreater than about 0.5 (l), not greater than about 0.49 (l), or even notgreater than about 0.48 (l). It will be appreciated that the distance257 can be within a range between any of the minimum and maximum valuesnoted above.

Referring again to FIG. 2A, the proximal end region 252 of a tubular mayinclude a proximal engagement region having a proximal engagementsurface shaped for complimentary engagement with a portion of theengagement head 109. For at least one embodiment, the proximalengagement region may include a region of the tubular having a smallerdiameter relative to a diameter of the tubular at a proximal tool joint205. For example, the central portion 207 and the tapered surface 206,which are adjacent the enlarged end portion 208, may define a proximalengagement surface and facilitate complementary engagement with portionsof the engagement head 109.

Other types of tubulars, as provided in FIG. 2A can include a drillcollar 220. In one instance, the drill collar 220 may have a flutedsurface 221, which may have particular uses in certain subterraneanoperations. Referring briefly to FIG. 2B, a portion of a drill collar220 is illustrated. In particular, a proximal end region of the drillcollar 220 can include a lift nipple 222 extending from a terminatingend 223 of the drill collar 220. In certain instances, the proximal endregion of the drill collar 220 may include the lift nipple 222, whichmay be configured to be engaged with the engagement head 109 tofacilitate changing the position of the drill collar 220 from asubstantially horizontal position to a substantially vertical position.

Referring again to FIG. 2A, another type of tubular can be casing 230.As illustrated, the casing 230 may be generally a cylindrical shape witha smooth exterior surface. Referring briefly to FIG. 2C, a proximal endregion of a casing 230 is illustrated. In accordance with an embodimentthe casing 230 can have a proximal end region including a zip groove 231which may facilitate engagement of the proximal end region of the casing230 with the engagement head 109 and a change of position of the casing230 from a substantially horizontal position to a substantially verticalposition.

In accordance with another embodiment, any of the tubulars describedherein can have a distal end region 262 displaced a distance from theproximal end region 252, and more particularly, may be positioned at ornear the opposite end of the tubular from the proximal end region 252.It will be appreciated that the distal end region 262 can include any ofthe features of the proximal end region 252. For example, the distal endregion 262 may include a distal engagement region 267 that may include afeature such as a tapered surface 266 extending at an angle relative toa joint surface 269.

Additionally, or alternatively, the distal engagement region 267 caninclude a distal engagement surface that is shaped for complementaryengagement with a portion of a stabilizer 111.

The distal end engagement region 267 can have a diameter that can besmaller than the diameter of the tubular at the distal terminating end.Moreover, as described herein with respect to the proximal engagementregion, the distal end region may include a zip groove, a lift nipple,and the like. As illustrated herein, the distal end region 262 of thetubular can include a distal tool joint 270, which may include athreaded surface for engagement with another end of a tubular.

The tubulars of embodiments herein may have a particular aspect ratio,as measured by the minimum outer diameter to the length (minimum outerdiameter:length) of the tubular. In accordance with an embodiment, thetubulars herein can have an aspect ratio of at least about 1:2, such asat least about 1:5, at least about 1:8, at least about 1:10, or even atleast about 1:15.

The tubulars of the embodiments herein can have various sizes dependingupon their intended purpose. For example, the tubulars herein may have aminimum outer diameter of at least about 4 inches, such as at leastabout 4.5 inches, at least about 5 inches, or even at least about 6inches. Still, the tubulars of the embodiments herein may have a minimumouter diameter that is not greater than about 25 inches, such as notgreater than about 20 inches, not greater than about 15 inches, or evennot greater than about 12 inches.

Furthermore, it will be appreciated that the size and weight of tubularsherein is significant. For example, the tubulars may have a weight of atleast about 100 kg, such as at least about 200 kg, at least about 300kg.

Engagement Head Assembly and a Mousehole Assembly

FIGS. 3A-3F include perspective view illustrations of certain componentsused in the tubular lift system 130 of the embodiments herein. Othercomponents, such as the stabilizer 111 and alignment elements, which arealso part of the tubular lift system 130 may be described in more detailin another section herein. FIG. 3A includes a perspective viewillustration of an engagement head assembly 311 and mousehole assembly113 in accordance with an embodiment. As illustrated, the engagementhead assembly 311 can include an engagement head 109 coupled to anengagement head tower 304 via a carriage 303. The engagement head 109can be positioned below a tubular 308 provided a substantiallyhorizontal position.

It will be appreciated that the engagement head assembly 311 can becontained within the work zone 131 on the drill floor 103. Furthermore,it will be appreciated that the engagement head tower 304, which is partof the engagement head assembly 311, can be contained with the work zone131 on the drill floor 103. In one embodiment, the engagement headassembly 311 can include rails extending vertically from the drill floor103 providing a pathway for movement of the engagement head 109. Thecarriage of 303 of the engagement head assembly 311 can be configured tocouple the engagement head 109 with the engagement head tower 304 andfurther facilitate translating of the engagement head 109 along theengagement head tower 304.

The engagement head 109 can include a first portion 301 and a secondportion 302, which may be movable with respect to each other. Forexample, in one embodiment, the first portion 301 may be configured tomove relative to the second portion 302. Still in other embodiments, thefirst portion 301 may be stationary and the second portion 302 may beconfigured to move relative to the first portion 301. As illustrated,the engagement head 109 may be in the form of a jaw including the firstportion 301 and second portion 302, which can move with respect to eachother from an open position to a closed position. In the open position,such as illustrated in FIG. 3A, the second portion 302 can be spacedapart from the first portion 301 and configured to engage a proximal endregion 307 of the tubular 308. The first portion 301 and second portion302 can be moved relative to each other to a closed position, such asillustrated in FIG. 3B. Notably, in the closed position, the firstportion 301 and the second portion 302 of the engagement head 109 may beconfigured to grasp the proximal end region 307 of the tubular 308.

In at least one embodiment, the first portion 301 of the engagement head109 may have a complementary surface having a shape configured to engageat least a portion of the proximal end region 307 of the tubular 308.For example, as illustrated in FIG. 3A, the first portion 301 caninclude a generally arcuate surface configured for complementaryengagement of the cylindrical surface of the proximal end region 307 ofthe tubular 308. Furthermore, the engagement head 109 can include asecond portion 302 having a surface 310 configured to engage a portionof the proximal end region 307 of the tubular 308. In particularinstances, the surface 310 of the second portion 302 may be shaped forcomplementary engagement with at least a portion of the surface of theproximal end region 307 of the tubular 308. For example, as illustratedin FIG. 3A, the surface 310 may have at least a generally arcuatesurface configured for engagement with at least a portion of theexterior surface of the proximal end region 307 of the tubular 308.

The engagement head 109 can be configured to translate vertically alongan engagement head axis 310. It will be appreciated that certaindirections described herein can be defined with respect to a planegenerally defined by the drill floor 103. For example, a vertical axiscan be defined by the vertical direction 396 extending perpendicular tothe plane of the drill floor 103. A horizontal axis can be defined bythe horizontal direction 397 extending in a direction parallel to thedrill floor 103. The lateral axis can be defined by a lateral direction398 can extend perpendicular to the vertical direction 396 andperpendicular to the horizontal direction 397. As further illustrated,the combination of the lateral direction 396 and horizontal direction397 can define a plane that is substantially parallel with the drillfloor 103.

It is noted herein, the engagement head 109 can be configured totranslate vertically along an engagement head axis 310 which may besubstantially parallel to a predetermined vertical axis. Thepredetermined vertical axis can extend in the vertical direction 396 andis an identified axis providing suitable alignment between one or morecomponents and facilitating suitable stand-building operations. Inparticular instances, the engagement head axis 310 can be the same asthe predetermined vertical axis. In other embodiments, the engagementhead axis 310 can be spaced apart from the predetermined vertical axis.The engagement head 109 can be configured to translate along theengagement head axis 310, which can further be substantially parallel toa longitudinal axis of a tubular in the substantially vertical position.

In accordance with an embodiment, the engagement head assembly 311 caninclude at least one drive device selected from the group of devicesconsisting of a motor, a hydraulic device, a pneumatic device, a steppermotor, a servo motor, DC motor, AC motor, and a combination thereof. Thedrive device can be configured to allow for movement of one or morecomponents of the engagement head assembly 311, including for example,but not limited to movement of the engagement head 109 for engagementwith a proximal end 307 of the tubular 308. In still other instances,the drive device may be configured to translate the engagement head 109on the engagement head tower 304, and more particularly, verticallytranslate the engagement head 109 along the engagement head axis 310along the engagement head tower 304. Furthermore, at least one drivedevice may be utilized to facilitate rotation of the engagement head 109relative around a rotational axis 315. While the rotational axis 315 isshown as extending generally in the lateral direction 398, it will beappreciated that the rotational axis 315 can extend in any direction,including the vertical axis 396, the horizontal axis 397, the lateralaxis 396, and any axis in between.

FIG. 3B includes a perspective view illustration of an engagement headassembly engaged with a tubular in accordance with an embodiment. Inparticular, the engagement head 109 is in a closed position and thesecond portion 302 of the engagement head 109 can be grasping andengaged with the proximal end region 307 of the tubular 308.Furthermore, as illustrated the engagement head 109 is illustrated astranslating in a vertical direction 396 along the engagement head axis310. Moreover, the engagement head 109 has rotated around the rotationalaxis 315 to facilitate an initial change of position of the tubular 308from a substantially horizontal position as illustrated in FIG. 3A to asubstantially vertical position. As illustrated, the engagement head 109can be in a closed position

According to one embodiment, the engagement head 109 can include a drivedevice 312 that facilitates relative movement of the second portion 302to the first portion 301 of the engagement head 109. In particularinstances, the drive device 312 can be a pneumatic device or hydraulicdevice configured to translate linear motion to a rotational motion ofthe second portion 302 and facilitate movement of the second portion 302between an open position and a closed position. It will be appreciatedthat other drive devices may be utilized to achieve relative motionbetween the first portion 301 and the second portion 302.

The engagement head assembly 311 can include a carriage 303 including adrive device 313. The drive device 313 can include a hydraulic orpneumatic device configured to translate linearly and convert the linearmotion of the drive device to rotary motion of the engagement head 109around a rotational axis 315. As noted herein, the rotational axis 315may correspond to a generally lateral direction 398. As shown in FIG.3B, the engagement head 109 can be configured to rotate in a direction316 about the rotational axis 315. It will be appreciated that otherdrive devices may be utilized to achieve relative rotational motion ofthe engagement head 109.

While not illustrated, it will be appreciated that certain designs ofthe engagement head 109 may allow for translation of the engagement head109 in a horizontal direction 397 relative to the engagement head tower304. In other embodiments, while not illustrated, it will be appreciatedthat the engagement head 109 can be coupled to the engagement head tower304 and configured to translate in a lateral direction 396 relative tothe engagement tower 304. Still, in at least one non-limitingembodiment, the engagement head 109 may be configured to translate in asingle direction, and more particularly, in a fixed vertical direction396 along the engagement head axis 310. Accordingly, in such instances,the engagement head 109 may have limited ability to translate in ahorizontal direction 397 or a lateral direction 398.

In accordance with an embodiment, the engagement head 109 can include asensor 305 that may be configured to detect certain aspects of the tubelifting process. Reference herein to a sensor can include a device suchas a transducer, an optical sensor, a mechanical sensor, a magneticsensor, an encoder, and a combination thereof.

In one aspect, the engagement head 109 can include a sensor configuredto detect a force applied to a tubular 308. In particular instances, theengagement head 109 can be configured to have selectable force orpressure settings, wherein the engagement head 109 can have differentpressure states based upon at least one characteristic of a tubular 308.For example, the engagement head 109 can be configured to adapt a forceapplied to a tubular based on the size of the tubular. In oneembodiment, the sensor 305 of the engagement head 109 can detect adiameter of the tubular to be engaged with the engagement head 109 andselect a force to be applied to the tubular 308 based upon the detecteddiameter of the tubular 308. In certain other aspects, the sensor 305may generate a signal representative of the detected diameter of thetubular 308 that can be sent to an operator of the tubular lift system.The operator can then select a force to be applied by the engagementhead 109 to the tubular 308 based upon the detected diameter of thetubular 308.

In accordance with one aspect, the engagement head 109 can be configuredto adapt to tubulars of different diameters, and more particularly, mayhave a jaw configured to grasp tubulars of different diameters. Forexample, in one embodiment, the engagement head 109 can include a sensor305 that is configured to detect a size, and more particularly, detectan external diameter of a tubular 308. Based upon the size of thetubular 308, the engagement head 109 can be configured to adapt to thesize of the tubular. For example, in one embodiment, the size of theopening 316 defined between the first portion 301 and the second portion302 can change in dimension in response to a detected size of thetubular 308.

In accordance with another embodiment, the engagement head 109 caninclude a sensor, such as the sensor 305, which can be configured todetect a location of the tubular 308 relative to at least one surface ofthe engagement head 109. For example, the engagement head 109 can detecta location of a tubular 308 relative to at least one surface, such as asurface of the first portion 301 of the engagement head 109.

It will be appreciated that reference herein to a sensor 305 isnon-limiting. For example, a suitable sensor may be placed on anyportion of the engagement head assembly 311 or with any component of theengagement head assembly 311 to facilitate detection of any one of thelocation tubular 308, size of a tubular 308, force applied to a tubular,and relative position of one of the components of the engagement headassembly 311 relative to another component of the tubular lift system130. For example, in one instance, the engagement head assembly 311 caninclude at least one sensor configured to detect a position of theengagement head 109 relative to a position on the engagement head tower304. In another embodiment, the engagement head assembly 311 may includeat least one sensor configured to detect at least one of a rotationalposition of the engagement head 109, a vertical position of theengagement head 109, a horizontal position of the engagement head 109, aposition of a tubular with respect to the engagement head 109, anangular variation of the tubular relative to a predetermined verticalaxis, and any other combination thereof.

FIG. 3C includes a perspective view illustration of an engagement headassembly and a mousehole assembly in accordance with an embodiment. Asillustrated, the tubular 308 has changed position from a substantiallyhorizontal position, as illustrated in FIG. 3A, to a substantiallyvertical position, as illustrated in FIG. 3C. Furthermore, the tubular308 has been translated along a predetermined vertical axis andpositioned within a mousehole assembly 113. In accordance with anembodiment, the engagement head 109 can be configured to translatevertically in a vertical direction 396 along the engagement head tower304 and translate the tubular 308 in a vertical position along thepredetermined vertical axis. Notably, one particular aspect of thepresent tubular lift system is the ability to maintain a stabilizedstate of the tubular, such that the tubular has a very low angularvariation with respect to a predetermined axis. The stabilized state maybe achieved when the tubular 308 is initially secured in thesubstantially vertical position, and further while translating thetubular 308 along the predetermined vertical axis to deliver the tubularto the mousehole assembly 113.

According to one embodiment, the tubular 308 can be configured to betranslated along the predetermined vertical axis in a stabilized statehaving an angular variation of not greater than about 5 degrees.Suitable angular variation can facilitate efficient operations, andparticularly, efficient stand-building operations. The angular variationof the tubular can be measured as an angle between the predeterminedvertical axis and a longitudinal axis of the tubular 308. FIG. 8includes an illustration of a tubular and the angular variation. Asillustrated, the tubular 801 can have a longitudinal axis 891corresponding and parallel to a direction of the length of the tubular801. The tubular can be oriented with respect to a predeterminedvertical axis 890, and notably, an angle 893 can define an angle betweenthe predetermined vertical axis 890 and the longitudinal axis 891 of thetubular 801. As noted herein, in a stabilized state, the angularvariation of the tubular 801 can be particularly low, such as notgreater than about 4.4 degrees, such as not greater than about 4degrees, not greater than about 3.5 degrees, not greater than about 3degrees, not greater than about 2.8 degrees, not greater that about 2.6degrees, not greater than about 2.4 degrees, not greater than about 2.2degrees, or even not greater than about 2 degrees.

In accordance with an embodiment, other elements may engage the tubularand assist with the change in position from the substantially horizontalposition to the substantially vertical position. For example, thetubular lift system 130 can include a stabilizer 111, which is generallyillustrated in FIG. 1A, FIG. 1B, FIGS. 6A-6F, FIG. 7A, and FIG. 7B anddescribed in more detail herein. Notably, the stabilizer 111 can beconfigured to engage a distal end region 262 of a tubular and reduceuncontrolled motion (e.g., swinging motion) of the distal end region 262of the tubular during a change of position of the tubular from asubstantially horizontal position to the substantially verticalposition. Aspects of the stabilizer 111 are described in more detailherein.

The tubular lift system 130 can further include one or more alignmentelements. During movement of the tubular 308 from a substantiallyhorizontal position to a substantially vertical position the tubular 308may be engaged by at least one alignment element. FIGS. 6G-6I includeschematic views of a portion of a tubular lift system includingalignment elements, and aspects of the alignment elements are describedin more detail herein.

As further illustrated in FIG. 3A, the system for manipulating tubularscan include a mousehole assembly 113. FIGS. 3A-3F provide furtherillustrations the mousehole assembly and operation of the mouseholeassembly in accordance with an embodiment. The mousehole assembly 113can include a first mousehole 340, a second mousehole 341 spaced apartfrom the first mousehole 340, and a cavity 345 contained with the drillfloor 103. The mousehole assembly 113 can further include a firstopening 343 defined by the first mousehole 340 and configured to accepta tubular 308 therein. As further illustrated, the mousehole assembly113 can include a second opening 344 associated with the secondmousehole 341 and configured to accept a different tubular therein. Inaccordance with an embodiment, the first mousehole 340 can define afirst central axis 320 extending in the vertical direction 396 andthrough a centerpoint of the first opening 343 of the first mousehole340. Furthermore, the second mousehole 341 can define a second centralaxis 330 extending in the vertical direction 396 and through acenterpoint of the second opening 344 of the second mousehole 341. Inaccordance with one aspect, the mousehole assembly 113 can be configuredto selectively move and align the first central axis 320 or secondcentral axis 330 with a predetermined vertical axis to facilitateefficient loading of the tubulars within the mousehole assembly 113.

As illustrated in FIG. 3A, the mousehole assembly 113 can include acavity 345 and a mousehole structure 346. The mousehole structure 346can contain the first mousehole 340 and second mousehole 341. As will beappreciated, the cavity 345 within the drill floor 103 may facilitatemovement of the mousehole structure 346 relative to a position on thedrill floor 103. In particular instances, the mousehole structure 346can be configured to move within the cavity 345 to facilitate alignmentof the first central axis 320 of the first mousehole 340 or the secondcentral axis 330 of the second mousehole 341 with a predeterminedvertical axis. In at least one embodiment, the utilization of amousehole structure 346 can facilitate movement of the first mousehole341 and second mousehole 341 simultaneously with respect to each other.However, it will be appreciated that other designs may be employed,wherein the first mousehole 341 may be moved independently of the secondmousehole 341, including for example utilization of at least twodifferent mousehole structures associated with two distinct mouseholeswithin a cavity.

The mousehole assembly 113, and more particularly, the mouseholestructure 346, can be configured to translate for a particular distancewithin the cavity 345. As illustrated, the cavity 345 can have a lengthdesignated CL. In certain instances, the mousehole structure can beconfigured to be translated within the cavity for a distance of at leastabout 0.1 (CL). In other embodiments, the mousehole structure 346 can beconfigured to move at least about 0.2 (CL), at least about 0.3 (CL), atleast about 0.4 (CL), or even at least about 0.5 (CL). Still, in onenon-limiting embodiment, the mousehole structure may be configured tomove not greater than about 0.8 (CL), such as not greater than about 0.7(CL), or even not greater than about 0.6 (CL). In one particularinstance, the distance between the first central axis 320 of the firstmousehole 340 and the second central axis 330 of the second mousehole341 can be the same as the distance the mousehole structure 346 istranslated within the cavity 345.

In accordance with an embodiment, the mousehole assembly 113 can includeat least one actuator configured to move at least a portion of themousehole assembly relative to the drill floor 103. The actuator caninclude at least one drive device as described in embodiments herein,such as a motor, a hydraulic device, a pneumatic device, a steppermotor, a servo motor, DC motor, AC motor, and a combination thereof. Asnoted herein, it will be appreciated that reference to moving at least aportion of the mousehole assembly 113 can include independently movingany one of the components of the mousehole assembly 113, including forexample, but not limited to, the first mousehole 340, the secondmousehole 341, and the mousehole structure 346. In the design of themousehole assembly 113 illustrated in FIGS. 3A-3F, it will beappreciated that the at least one actuator can be configured totranslate the mousehole structure 346 from a first position 348 asillustrated in FIG. 3A to a second position 351, as illustrated in FIG.3D. The manner in which the first and second mouseholes 340 and 341 aremoved with respect to each other is not limited by the illustratedembodiments herein.

As noted herein, the mousehole assembly 113 can be configured to moverelative to a surface in the work zone 131. In particular, the mouseholeassembly 113 may be configured to move relative to the drill floor 103,and more particularly, may change position relative to one or morecomponents (e.g., the engagement arm 109) of the tubular lift system130. It will be appreciated that reference herein to movement of atleast a portion of the mousehole assembly 113 can include movement inany of the directions noted herein, including a lateral direction 398, ahorizontal direction 397, and a vertical direction 396. For example, inone particular embodiment the relative movement of the mouseholeassembly 113 to a surface of the drill floor 103 can include rotation,translation, and a combination thereof. While the embodiments hereingenerally show translation of the mousehole assembly 113 in a horizontaldirection 397, it will be appreciated that other designs may be utilizedthat allow for distinct movement of a mousehole assembly in otherdirections.

As noted herein, the mousehole assembly 113 can be disposed within thework zone 131. More particularly, the mousehole assembly 113 can bespace away from an operator zone 132. Accordingly, the mouseholeassembly 113 may be configured to be operated by an operator containedwithin the operator zone 132 and spaced away from the work zone 131. Incertain instances, the mousehole assembly 113 may be controlled from theoperator zone 132 via an input module. Suitable input modules caninclude those noted herein, including but not limited to, a device suchas a control column, a joystick, an analog device, a digital device, apotentiometer, a variable resistor, a gyroscope, and a combinationthereof. In one particular embodiment, the mousehole assembly 113 may bean automated system, such that the controlled movement or controlledsequence of operations of the mousehole assembly 113 can be controlledby actuation of a single switch.

In particular embodiments, the cavity 345 may be configured to have acover 347. The cover 347 may underlie the drill floor 103. In otherembodiments, the cover 347 may overlie the drill floor 103. Furthermore,the cover 347 may be movable relative to the mousehole structure 346,thus limiting any openings below the drill floor 103 and limitingpotential hazards within the work zone 131. In at least one embodiment,the cover 347 can be configured to move between a first position and asecond position. For example, the cover 347 can be configured to bemovable between a first position and a second position relative to thefirst position and second position of the mousehole structure 346.

As noted in FIG. 3A, the mousehole assembly 113 can be provided in afirst position 348, wherein the first central axis 320 of the firstmousehole 340 can be aligned with a predetermined vertical axis. Inparticular, in the first position 348 the first central axis 320 of thefirst mousehole 340 defines the predetermined vertical axis, such thatthe first central axis 320 and the predetermined vertical axis are thesame. Moreover, in the first position 348 of the mousehole structure346, the second central axis 330 can be displaced a distance away fromthe first central axis 320, and thus, displaced a distance from thepredetermined vertical axis in the horizontal direction 397.

Referring now to FIG. 3D, the mousehole assembly 113 is illustrated aschanged in position from the first position 348, as illustrated in FIG.3A, to a second position 351, as illustrated in FIG. 3D. Moreover, aswill be appreciated, in changing the position of the mousehole structure346, the position of the cavity 347 may change. Notably, in the secondposition 351, the cavity 347 can be disposed on the opposite side of themousehole structure 346 as compared to the position of the cavity 347relative to the mousehole structure 346 in the first position 348.Furthermore, in the second position 351, the second central axis 330 ofthe second mousehole 341 can be aligned with the predetermined verticalaxis to facilitate delivery of a second tubular 358 to the secondmousehole 341. More particularly, in the second position 351, the secondcentral axis 330 can define the predetermined vertical axis. Inparticular, at the second position 351, the first central axis 320 ofthe first mousehole 340 can be displaced a distance from the secondcentral axis 330 of the second mousehole 341 and from the predeterminedvertical axis defined by the second central axis 330 of the secondmousehole 341.

In accordance with an embodiment, the first mousehole 341 can define afirst opening 343 having a first diameter. Moreover, the secondmousehole 341 can define a second opening 344 having a second diameter.In accordance with an embodiment, the first diameter of the firstopening 343 and the second diameter of the second opening 344 can besubstantially similar. More particularly, the size of the openings 343and 344 can be essentially the same.

The mousehole assembly 113 may be equipped with one or more sensors ortransducers to facilitate detection of certain characteristics of theprocess and adaptation of the mousehole assembly 113 for particularconditions. For example, in one embodiment the mousehole assembly 113can include at least one sensor such that it is configured to adapt totubulars of different sizes, and more particularly, tubulars ofdifferent diameters. In one embodiment, the first mousehole 340 can haveat least one mechanical device facilitating a change in the diameter ofthe first opening 343 to facilitate reception of tubulars of differentdiameters. For example, in one embodiment the first mousehole 340 canhave a first opening position configured to receive a first tubular of afirst diameter and a second opening position configured to accept asecond tubular having a second diameter different than the firstdiameter.

It will be appreciated that the second mousehole 341 can utilize thesame features noted above for the first mousehole 340. In one aspect,the second mousehole 341 may include a sensor configured to detect atubular to be disposed therein, and more particularly, configured toadapt to tubulars of different sizes. In certain instances, the secondmousehole 341 may be adaptable, such that is has a first openingposition configured for a first tubular having a first diameter, and asecond opening position configured to receive a second tubular having asecond diameter different than the first diameter. As such, the secondmousehole 341 may be capable of changing the size of the second opening344 to facilitate receiving of tubulars of different diameters.

In one embodiment, the mousehole assembly 113 can include a sensor thatcan be configured to detect an alignment between a predeterminedvertical axis and the first central axis 320 of the first mousehole 340or between the predetermined vertical axis and the second central axis330 of the second mousehole 341. It will be appreciated that such asensor can be placed on any of the components of the mousehole assembly113, including for example, inside the first mousehole 340 or inside thesecond mousehole 341. In certain instances, the mousehole assembly 113can include a sensor that is configured to detect an alignment betweenthe predetermined vertical axis and the first central axis 320 or thesecond central axis 330, and further configured to change a position ofthe first mousehole 340 or the second mousehole 341 based on a signalincluding alignment data. For example, the sensor may detect amisalignment between the first central axis 320 and the predeterminedvertical axis and send a signal to facilitate adjustment of the positionof one or more of the components of the mousehole assembly 113 (e.g. themousehole structure 348) to achieve suitable alignment between the firstcentral axis 320 and the predetermined vertical axis or the secondcentral axis 330 and the predetermined vertical axis.

Referring now to FIG. 3A-3F the process of manipulating tubulars andutilizing the mousehole assembly 113 will be described. At a first time,the first mousehole 340 can be at a first position 348, as provided inFIG. 3A, and at a second time different than the first time the firstmousehole 340 can be at a second position 351 different than the firstposition 348, as shown in FIG. 3D. Likewise the same displacement of thefirst mousehole 340 at different times can apply for the secondmousehole 341. Accordingly, at a first time the first mousehole 340 canhave a first central axis 320 aligned with a predetermined vertical axisassociated with a longitudinal axis of a first tubular 308 in asubstantially vertical position. At the second time, referring to FIG.3D the first mousehole 340 can be displaced a distance from thepredetermined vertical axis and the second mousehole 341 can have asecond central axis 330 aligned with a predetermined vertical axisassociated with a longitudinal axis of the second tubular 358 andconfigured to receive the second tubular 358 within the second mousehole341.

As illustrated, at a first time illustrated in FIG. 3A a first tubular308 can be in a substantially horizontal position and in an initialposition to be engaged by the engagement head 109. Furthermore, themousehole assembly 113 can be in a first position 348 having a firstcentral axis 320 of the first mousehole 340 aligned with a predeterminedvertical axis and in a position to receive the first tubular 308.

At a second time as illustrated in FIG. 3B, the first tubular 308 can bemanipulated by the engagement head 109 and lifted along the engagementhead axis 310. Simultaneously while lifting the first tubular 308 alongthe engagement head axis 310, the engagement head can be rotating in thedirection 316 to facilitate a change in the position of the firsttubular 308 from a substantially horizontal position toward asubstantially vertical position. As further illustrated in FIG. 3C afterchanging the position of the tubular 308 to a substantially verticalposition, the engagement head 109 can move vertically downward and thefirst tubular 308, which is aligned with a predetermined vertical axisthat corresponds to a first central axis 320 of the first mousehole 340,can be delivered in a stabilized state to the first mousehole 340.

FIG. 3D includes a perspective view illustration of a mousehole assemblyand engagement head assembly in accordance with an embodiment. Asillustrated in FIG. 3D, after securing the first tubular 308 within thefirst mousehole 340, a second tubular 358 can be taken from asubstantially horizontal position and manipulated into a substantiallyvertical position such that the second tubular 358 has the longitudinalaxis aligned with a predetermined vertical axis. Notably, the mouseholestructure 346 has changed to the second position 351. In the secondposition 351, the second central axis 330 of the second mousehole 341 isaligned with and defines the predetermined vertical axis. Accordingly,as illustrated, the second tubular 358 can be delivered in a stabilizedstate to the second mousehole 341.

FIG. 3E includes an illustration of a third tubular 368 being joinedwith the second tubular 358. It will be appreciated that the thirdtubular 368 can be manipulated in the same manner as the second tubular358. Joining of the third tubular 368 and second tubular 358 may befacilitated by the use of an iron roughneck 112. Notably, as illustratedin FIG. 3E, the joining of the second tubular 358 and third tubular 368can be facilitated by utilization of the mousehole assembly 113 in thesecond position 351. It will further be appreciated that the joining ofthe second tubular 358 with the third tubular 368 can form a double 369.

As further illustrated in FIG. 3F, the double 369 may be removed fromthe second mousehole 341 and the mousehole structure 346 can be shiftedto the first position 348. As such, the central axis 330 of the firstmousehole 340 and the longitudinal axis of the first tubular 308 can bealigned with the longitudinal axis of the double 369 to facilitatedjoining of the double 369 with the first tubular 308 and the formationof a stand. Joining of the double 369 and the first tubular 308 may befacilitated by the use of an iron roughneck 112.

Griphead

The following is reference to a griphead, which is a tool that can beused in the tubular lift system 130 to facilitate further manipulationof one or more tubulars (e.g., a stand). Distinct from other toolsdescribed herein, the griphead may be utilized in a racking procedurewherein a string of tubulars may be placed on the rack 115 and madeready for use at the well center 188. Referring briefly to FIG. 1, agriphead 114 is generally shown as a device suitable for grasping andmanipulating tubulars or strings of tubulars and moving the tubularsfrom the stand-building area, to a rack 115, and further to the wellcenter 188 to be used in the active drilling operation.

FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 5C provide illustrations of a griphead in accordancewith an embodiment. In particular FIG. 5A includes a perspective viewillustration of a griphead in accordance with an embodiment. FIG. 5Bincludes a top view of a griphead in accordance with an embodiment. FIG.5C includes a top view illustration of a griphead in accordance with anembodiment.

The griphead 500 can include a housing 501 and a jaw assembly 530contained within the housing 501. The jaw assembly 530 can include anactuator box 502 contained within the housing 501. Furthermore, the jawassembly 530 can include a first arm 504 configured to be actuatedbetween an open position and a closed position by controlling a relativeposition of the first arm 504 with respect to a first bumper 505.

As further illustrated, the first arm 504 can be coupled to the actuatorbox 502 via a fastener 510. Notably, in one embodiment, the first arm504 can be coupled to the actuator box 502 at the fastener 510 andconfigured to rotate around a portion of the actuator box 502 indirection 521 or 531 at the fastener 510. Likewise, the second arm 514can be coupled to the actuator box 502 at a fastener 520. Moreparticularly, the second arm 514 can be coupled to the actuator box 502and configured to rotate around a position of the actuator box 502 indirection 522 or 541 at the fastener 520. The fastener 510 can beconfigured to allow rotational motion of the first arm 504 relative tothe housing 501. The fastener 520 can be configured to allow rotationalmotion of the second arm 514 relative to the housing 501. The fasteners510 and 520 can include components such as a hinge, a pin, and the like.

As noted herein the jaw assembly 530 can include a first arm 504,wherein in the open position, the first arm 504 can be spaced away fromthe first bumper 505 and in a closed position the first arm 504 can beconfigured to be engaged with (i.e., abutting) the first bumper 505. Incertain instances, the engagement of the first arm 504 with the firstbumper 505 can facilitate movement of the first arm 504 in direction 531and a change of position of the first arm 504 from an open position, asprovided in FIG. 5B, to a closed position, as illustrated in FIG. 5C.Movement of the first arm 504 from an open position to a closed positioncan facilitate grasping of a tubular 550 within the jaw assembly 530.

The grip head 500 can include a first bumper 505 which can be affixed tothe housing 501. As such, the first bumper 505 may be a stationaryarticle securely fixed in place on the housing 501 such that relativemotion of the first arm 504 to the bumper 505 is caused by the motion ofthe first arm 504 towards the stationary first bumper 505. Still in analternative embodiment, the first bumper 505 may be configured to bemoved between a first position and second position. Notably, the firstposition of the first bumper 505 can correspond to an open position ofthe first arm 504 and a second position of the first bumper 505 cancorrespond to a closed position of the first arm 504.

The first arm 504 may include a first pin 509 extending from an uppersurface of the first arm and configured to be engaged in a first slotwithin the housing 502. In accordance with an embodiment, the first pin509 can extend from an upper surface of the first arm 504 and engagedwith a first slot in the housing 501. The first pin 509 can beconfigured to translate between a first position and a second positionwithin the first slot in the housing 501. In accordance with anembodiment, the first position of the first pin 509 can correspond to anopen position of the first arm 504 (see FIG. 5B) and a second positionof the first pin 509 within the first slot of the housing 501 cancorrespond to a closed position of the first arm 504 (FIG. 5C).

The griphead 500 can further include a jaw assembly 530 including asecond arm 514 configured to be moveable between an open position and aclosed position by controlling a position of the second arm 514 relativeto a second bumper 515. The second arm 514 that can be configured to bemoved between an open position, as generally illustrated in FIG. 5B, toa closed position, as generally illustrated in FIG. 5C. In particular,in an open position the second arm 514 can be spaced away from thesecond bumper 515, while in a closed position the second arm 514 can beengaged with and abutting the second bumper 515. In particularinstances, engagement of the second arm 514 with the second bumper 515can facilitate rotational motion of the second arm 514 from the openposition to the closed position. The second bumper 515 may be attachedto the housing 501, and more particularly, may be fixably attached tothe housing 501. Movement of the second arm 514 from an open position toa closed position can facilitate grasping of a tubular 550 within thejaw assembly 530.

The second bumper 515 can be affixed to the housing 501, and moreparticularly, may be a stationary article securely fixed in place on thehousing 501 such that relative motion of the second arm 514 relative tothe first bumper 515 is caused by the motion of the second arm 514towards the stationary second bumper 515. Still in an alternativeembodiment, the second bumper 515 may be configured to be moved betweena first position and second position. Notably, the first position of thesecond bumper 515 can correspond to an open position of the second arm514 and a second position of the second bumper 515 can correspond to aclosed position of the second arm 514.

Moreover, the second arm 514 may include a second pin 519 configured tobe engaged within a second slot within the housing 501. In particular,the second arm 514 can include an upper surface and a second pin 519extending from the upper surface and configured to engage a second slotin the housing 501. Notably, the second pin may be configured totranslate between a first position and second position within the secondslot of the housing 501. The first position of the second pin 519 cancorrespond to an open position of the second arm 514, while the secondposition of the second pin 519 within the second slot can correspond toa closed position of the second arm 514, such as shown in FIG. 5C. Itwill be appreciated that changing of the second arm 514 from an openposition, such as shown in FIG. 5B, to a closed position, such as shownin FIG. 5C can facilitate grasping of a tubular 550 within the jawassembly 530.

Movement of the jaw assembly 530 from an open position, such as shown inFIG. 5B, to a closed position, such as shown in FIG. 5C, can befacilitated by translation of one of more components of the griphead500. In particular instances, the jaw assembly 530 can be configured tobe translated in a linear direction relative to the housing 501.Moreover, translation in a linear direction of the jaw assembly 530relative to the housing 501 can facilitate rotational movement of thefirst arm 504 and second arm 514. In accordance with one particularembodiment, the first arm 504 can be moved from an open position such asshown in FIG. 5B to a closed position such as shown in FIG. 5C bymovement of the jaw assembly 530 in a linear direction 561 relative tothe housing 501. In one aspect, the linear motion of the jaw assembly530 can cause an outer surface 552 of the first arm 504 to abut thefirst bumper 505 and urge rotational movement of the first arm 504 inthe direction 531 around the fastener 510. Moreover, the linear motionof the jaw assembly 530 in the direction 561 can cause an outer surface753 of the second arm 514 to abut the second bumper 515, urgingrotational movement of the second arm 514 in the direction 541 about thefastener 520 and movement of the second arm 514 from an open position asshown in FIG. 5B to a closed position as shown in FIG. 5C.

As further illustrated, the jaw assembly 530 can include an actuator box502 that can be configured to be translated in the linear direction 561.In accordance with an embodiment, the actuator box 502 can be configuredto move between a first position and a second position relative to thehousing 501. Moreover, the actuator box 502 can be configured to movebetween a first position corresponding to an open position of the firstarm 504 and second arm 514 to a second position corresponding to aclosed position of the first arm 504 and second arm 514. Referring moreparticularly to FIGS. 5B and 5C, movement of the actuator box 502 from afirst position to a second position in the direction 561 facilitatesengagement of the first arm 504 with the first bumper 505 and the secondarm 514 with the second bumper 515 and rotational motion of the firstarm 504 and second arm 514 from an open position to a closed position.Furthermore, it will be appreciated that the linear movement of theactuator box 502 in the direction 561 may also result in some linearmovement of the first arm 504 and second arm 514 in generally the samedirection 561, until the first arm 504 and second arm 514 engage andabut the first bumper 505 and second bumper 515, respectively.

Upon abutting the first bumper 505 with the first arm 504 the linearmovement of the first arm 504 in the direction 561 may be translated toadditional rotational motion in direction 531. Likewise, for the secondarm 514 some linear translation of the second arm 514 may occur untilthe outer surface 753 of the second arm 514 abuts the second bumper 515

Movement of the jaw assembly 530, and more particularly, the actuatorbox 502 may be facilitated by a drive device. One suitable drive devicecan include a piston 508. The piston 508 can be coupled to a central arm503 disposed between the first arm 504 and second arm 514. In oneembodiment, the piston 508 can be fixably attached to the housing 501and intended to be held stationary with respect to the housing 501.According to another embodiment, the central arm 503 can be configuredto engage a tubular 550 and the gripping force on the tubular 550 may becontrolled by a position of the central arm 503 relative to the jawassembly 530. The piston 508 can be configured to move between a firstposition and a second position, which can be configured to facilitatemotion of the first arm 504 between the open position and closedposition corresponding to the first position and second position of thepiston 508. Moreover, movement of the piston 508 between the firstposition and second position can be configured to facilitate motion ofthe second arm 514 between the open position and closed positioncorresponding to the first position and second position of the piston508.

In at least one embodiment, the piston 508 can be coupled to a sensorconfigured to measure a force (or pressure) applied by the piston to theactuator box 502. In certain instances, the sensor can include atransducer that is configured to measure a pressure applied by thepiston 508 on the actuator box 502 and generate a signal based on thepressure. The signal may be used to modify or adjust the pressureapplied by the piston 508 on the actuator box 502. It will beappreciated that the measurement and adjustment of pressure by thepiston 508 and the sensor on the actuator box 502 can facilitateadjustment of pressure applied by the jaw assembly 503 on a tubular 550.The adjustment of the pressure applied by the piston 508 can befacilitated by the use of a logic device. The logic device may beconfigured to adjust the pressure applied by the piston based on thesignal generated from the transducer. Alternatively, a signal may besent to an operator in operator zone 132 and the operator may select asuitable pressure to be applied by the piston 508 based upon the signal.

The griphead 500 may further include a sensor configured to measure atleast one aspect of a tubular 550. For example, the griphead 500 caninclude a sensor configured to measure a diameter of a tubular 550.Measurement of an aspect of a tubular, including for example a diameterof a tubular, may facilitate selection and adjustment of a grip pressureapplied by the jaw assembly 530 to the tubular 550. That is, the grippressure of the jaw assembly 530 applied on a tubular 550 can beadjusted based on the diameter of the tubular 550.

In an alternative embodiment, a grip pressure applied by the jawassembly 530 on a tubular can be adjusted based upon the pressureapplied by the piston 508 to the actuator box 502 of the jaw assembly530. Moreover, the grip pressure of the jaw assembly 530 may be adjustedbased on the pressure applied by the piston 508 to the central arm 503in contact with the tubular 550. For example, the greater the forceapplied by the piston 508, the further the movement of the actuator box502 in the direction 561, and thus the greater the force applied on thefirst arm 504 and second arm 514 to urge rotation to a closed position,and the greater the force applied on the tubular 560.

The griphead 500 may be formed such that the jaw assembly 530 can beadapted to grasp tubular having various diameters. In particular, thejaw assembly 530 may configured to securely hold tubulars having adiameter of at least about 4 inches, such as at least about 4.5 inches,at least about 5 inches, or even at least about 6 inches. And stillother embodiments, the jaw assembly 530 of the grip head 500 may beconfigured to securely grasp tubulars having a diameter of not greaterthan about 25 inches, such as not greater than about 20 inches, notgreater than about 18 inches, not greater than about 16 inches, notgreater than about 14 inches, or even not greater than about 12 inches.

As further illustrated, the first arm 504 can include a first contactpad 507 configured to engage a portion of a tubular 550 in the closedposition. The first contact pad can be coupled to an interior surface571 of the first arm 504. Furthermore, the second arm 514 can have asecond contact pad 517 coupled to an interior 572 of the second arm 514.Moreover, the central arm 503 can include a central contact pad 506coupled to an interior surface 573 of the central arm 503. In accordancewith a particular embodiment, the first contact pad 507 can have aconvex curvature such that the exterior surface of the first contact pad507 can be bowed outward away from the interior surface 571 of the firstarm 504. The curvature of the first contact pad 507 in an outward mannercan facilitate engagement of the tubular 550 on the first contact pad507 and limit corner or edge contacts with the tubular and stressrisers.

The second contact pad 517 can have a similar curvature to the firstcontact pad 507. For example, the second contact pad 517 can have aconvex curvature or an outer surface curving outwards away from theinterior surface 572 of the second arm 514, which may limit pointcontacts between the second contact pad 517 and the tubular 550.Furthermore, the central contact pad 506 can have a similar shape withrespect to the first contact pad 507 or the second contact pad 517,including for example a convex curvature to limit point contacts andstress risers when in contact with the tubular 550.

As illustrated in FIG. 5C the first contact pad 507, second contact pad517, and central contact pad 506 can be configured to contact thetubular 550 at particular locations. In accordance with an embodiment,the contact points, wherein the contact pads 507, 517, and 506 are incontact with the tubular 550 are spaced apart from each other by acentral angle. For example, the central angle 581 can define an anglebetween a contact point of the central contact pad 506 and first contactpad 507 with the tubular 550, based on a centerpoint of the tubular asviewed in cross-section. Furthermore, the central angle 582 defines anangle between a contact point of the central contact pad 506 with thetubular 550 and a contact point of the second contact pad 517 with thetubular 550. In accordance with embodiment, the contact points can bespaced apart from each other by an angle having a value of at leastabout 90 degrees relative to the center of the tubular 550. In otherembodiments, the central angle 581 or 582 can be greater, such as atleast about 95 degrees, at least about 98 degrees, at least about 100degrees, at least about 105 degrees, and the like. In other non-limitingembodiments, the central angle 581 or 582 can be not greater than about170 degrees, or even not greater than about 160 degrees. Control of thecentral angle and location of contact points can facilitate suitablegrip pressure to securely hold tubulars 550 having a variety ofdiameters within the jaw assembly 530.

In accordance with another aspect, the grip head 500 may utilize amaintenance kit for maintenance and replacement of certain portions ofthe griphead 500. In particular, a kit for maintenance can includereplacement contact pads for any of the contact pads of the griphead500. For example the maintenance kit may include at least one of a firstcontact pad 507 for a first arm 504, a second contact pad 517 for asecond arm 514, and a central contact pad 704 for a central arm 503. Itwill be appreciated that the maintenance kit may sell each of thecontact pads individually or together.

System and Method for Manipulating Tubulars of the SubterraneanOperations

FIGS. 6A-6K provide schematic view illustrations of a sequence forhandling tubulars, and in particular, changing a position of a tubularfrom a substantially horizontal position to a substantially verticalposition to facilitate a stand-building operation using the tubular liftsystem of the embodiments herein. FIG. 6A includes a schematicillustration of a first sequence wherein a first tubular 605 is moved toan end of a shunter 688. The first tubular 605 can be moved to the endof the shunter 688 and over a portion of the stabilizer 111. Inparticular, the first tubular 605 can be moved to the end of the shunter688 over the stabilizer 111 and over a receiving surface 604 of thestabilizer 111. After the first tubular 605 is moved to the end ofshunter 688 and the proximal end region 252 of the first tubular 605 isadjacent to the receiving surface 604, the stabilizer 111 can be movedin a direction 607 to provide the first tubular 605 to an initialposition 670.

In the initial position, the proximal end region 252 can be placed at anengagement head axis 310, such that the proximal end region 252 of thefirst tubular 605 is configured to be engaged by the engagement head109. Notably, the movement of the stabilizer 111 can be facilitated byat least one hinged axis 603 facilitating motion of the stabilizer 111in the direction 607 and lifting the tubular to the initial position670. It will be appreciated that in moving the first tubular 605 fromthe end of the shunter 688 to the initial position 670, wherein theproximal end region 252 is placed on an engagement head axis 310, one ormore elements of the pipe pusher 688 may be used to engage and push adistal end of the first tubular 605 over the receiving surface 604 ofthe stabilizer 111.

FIG. 6B includes a schematic view of a second sequence for operating atubular lift system in accordance with an embodiment. As illustrated, atthe second sequence, the engagement head 109 of the engagement headassembly 311 can be engaged with the proximal end region 252 of thefirst tubular 605. The engagement head 109 can travel in a verticaldirection 396 along the engagement head axis 310 to lift the tubularfrom the substantially horizontal position of the initial position 670toward a substantially vertical position. During lifting of the firsttubular 605 in the vertical direction 396, the engagement head 109 maybe configured to simultaneously rotate in a direction 611 to facilitatethe change of position of the first tubular 605 from a substantiallyhorizontal position to a substantially vertical position.

FIG. 6C includes a schematic view illustration of a third sequence foroperating a tubular lift system in accordance with an embodiment. Asillustrated, the first tubular 605 can be lifted by the engagement head109 along the engagement head axis 310. Furthermore, during verticallifting of the first tubular 605, the stabilizer 111 can maintaincontact with a distal end region 262 of the first tubular 605 to limitand substantially eliminate uncontrolled motion of the distal end region262 of the first tubular 605 during a change of position from thesubstantially horizontal position to the substantially verticalposition. In order to facilitate maintaining contact of the distal endregion 622 of the first tubular 605 with the stabilizer 111, thestabilizer 111 can be configured for movement in a first direction 621,and thereafter, movement in a second direction 622 to facilitatedelivery of the tubular to the substantially vertical position with thepredetermined vertical axis which may coincide with a central axis 320of the first mousehole 340. As will be appreciated motion of thestabilizer 111 can be facilitated by one or more drives devices, whichmay include, for example, a hydraulic device to facilitate motion of thestabilizer 111 in multiple directions.

As noted herein, the stabilizer 111 can have particular features thatmay be utilized to properly position the distal end region 262 of thefirst tubular 605 on the stabilizer 111 and maintain control of thedistal end region 262 of the tubular during the change in position ofthe first tubular 605 from the substantially horizontal position to thesubstantially vertical position. FIG. 7A includes an illustration of aportion of a stabilizer in accordance with an embodiment. FIG. 7Bincludes an illustration of a stabilizer engaging a tubular inaccordance with an embodiment. The stabilizer 111 can be configured toengage a distal end region 262 of a tubular and reduce uncontrolledmotion (e.g., swinging motion) of the distal end region 262 of the firsttubular 605, and in particular, can eliminate the need for humaninteraction with the work zone 131 to stabilize the distal end region262 of the first tubular 605. In particular instances, the stabilizer111 can be contained within the work zone 131 and spaced away from anoperator zone 132. Accordingly, the stabilizer 111 may be controlled byan operator within the operator zone 132. It will be appreciated thatoperation of the stabilizer 111 may be a remote-controlled processutilizing any one of the input modules noted above. Alternatively, thestabilizer 111 may be operated as an automated process requiring littleto no continual input from an operator to conduct operations, andrather, may be operated by actuation of a single switch.

In accordance with an embodiment, the stabilizer 111 can be configuredto engage at least a portion of the first tubular 605 in thesubstantially horizontal position and facilitate movement of the firsttubular 605 to the initial position 670. Moreover, as noted in FIG. 6C,the stabilizer 111 can be configured for movement in one directionalong, including for example, the vertical direction 396, the lateraldirection 398, or the horizontal direction 397, and any combinationthereof. In particular instances, the stabilizer 111 can be configuredfor complex movement in at least two directions. The stabilizer 111 maybe capable of simultaneous movement in multiple directions. For example,the stabilizer 111 may be configured for movement in the direction 621and the direction 622 to facilitate lifting and translation of the firsttubular 605 in concert with the lifting and rotating motion of theengagement head 109.

According to one aspect, the stabilizer 111 can include a receivingsurface 701 configured to engage at least a portion of a first tubular605. In particular instances, the receiving surface 701 can include acontour having a complementary shape relative to a shape or a portion ofa shape of the first tubular 605. For example, the receiving surface 701may have an arcuate contour configured to engage at least a portion ofan exterior surface of the first tubular 605. In more particularinstances, the receiving surface 701 of the stabilizer 111 may have asubstantially concave curvature to engage at least a portion of theexterior surface of the first tubular 605 therein.

In another aspect, at least a portion of the stabilizer 111 may includea roller 604 configured to rotate in the direction 705 as the tubulartranslates in a direction 709 over a surface of the roller. For example,the roller 604 can include the receiving surface 701 configured toengage a portion of the first tubular 605, such that upon translation ofthe tubular over the receiving surface the roller 604 can be configuredto rotate and smoothly translate the first tubular 605 over thereceiving surface 701.

In at least one embodiment, the stabilizer 111 can further include astop bar 702. The stop bar 702 can be configured to engage a portion ofthe tubular and maintain contact between the first tubular 605 and thereceiving surface 701 of the stabilizer 111, and reduce swinging motionof the first tubular 605 away from the receiving surface 701 of thestabilizer 111. In particular instances, the first tubular 605 may bedisposed between a stop bar 702 and the receiving surface 701 of thestabilizer 111 to reduce uncontrolled motion of a distal end region 262of the first tubular 605 during a change of position of the tubular froma substantial horizontal position to a substantial vertical position. Inat least one embodiment, the stop bar 702 of the stabilizer 111 caninclude a latch that may be actuated by a switch. The switch can beactuated by a sensor configured to detect the presence and location ofthe first tubular 605 on the stabilizer 111. Alternatively, the switchcan be remote-controlled by an operator in the operator zone 132.

It will be appreciated that in certain instances the stop bar 702 can beconfigured to be actuated between an open position and a closedposition, generally in the direction 703. In the open position, the stopbar 702 can be spaced away from a surface of the first tubular 605, andin the closed position, such as shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B, the stop bar702 can be configured to be in contact with a surface of the firsttubular 605. Accordingly, in the closed position the stop bar 702 may bein contact with the surface of the first tubular 605 and the firsttubular 605 may be disposed between a surface of the stop bar 702 and asurface of the receiving surface 901 of the stabilizer 111.

As further illustrated, in one embodiment, the stop bar 702 may includea tab 706 extending from a distal end of the stop bar 702 and configuredto facilitate engagement of the first tubular 605 with the receivingsurface 701. In one embodiment, the tab 706 can be configured formaintaining the position of the first tubular 605 with the receivingsurface 701.

In at least one embodiment, during the motion of the stabilizer indirection 621 and/or 622 the stop bar 702 may be utilized to dispose theproximal end region 262 of the first tubular 605 between the stop bar702 and receiving surface 701 of the stabilizer 111 to facilitate asmooth transition of the first tubular 605 from a substantiallyhorizontal position to a substantially vertical position and astabilized state such that the angular variation of the tubular withrespect to the predetermined vertical axis is limited.

In accordance with one embodiment, during the change of position of thefirst tubular 605 from a substantially horizontal position to asubstantially vertical position a rotational motion of the engagementhead 109 and a motion of the stabilizer 111 in one or more directionscan be coordinated relative to each other to limit the uncontrolledmotion (e.g., swinging of the distal end region 262 of the tubular). Forexample, in one embodiment during the change of position of the firsttubular 605 from a substantially horizontal position to a substantiallyvertical position, a vertical motion of the engagement head 109 andmotion of the stabilizer 111 can be coordinated relative to each otherto limit uncontrolled motion of the first tubular 605. For example, therate of vertical lift in the direction 396 of the engagement head 109may be coordinated with the rate of change in direction of thestabilizer in the direction 621 and/or 622 to limit uncontrolled motionof the distal end region 262 of the first tubular 605. Furthermore, itwill be appreciate that in addition, the rotational motion of theengagement head 109 in the direction 811 may be controlled relative tothe motion of the stabilizer 111 in direction 621 and/or 622 to limituncontrolled motion of the distal end region 262 of the first tubular605. For example, the rate of rotation may be managed with respect tothe rate of the change direction of the stabilizer 111 in the direction621 and/or 622.

In one embodiment, a method of managing and controlling the rate ofmovement in one or more directions between the engagement head 109 andstabilizer 111 can include one or more sensors configured to measure therate of movement of the engagement head 109 and/or stabilizer 111.Furthermore, the system may utilize one or more logic circuits to adaptthe rate of movement of the engagement head 109 and stabilizer 111 withrespect to each other based on the measured rates of movement by thesensors. The system may be configured to change the rate of movement ofthe engagement head 109 and/or stabilizer 111 relative to each other tofacilitate a smooth transition and limit uncontrolled motion of thedistal end of the first tubular 605 during the change in position of thefirst tubular 605 from the substantially horizontal position to thesubstantially vertical position.

As further illustrated in FIG. 6C, after placing the first tubular 605in a substantially vertical position 625, wherein the longitudinal axisof the first tubular 605 is substantially aligned with a predeterminedvertical axis corresponding to a central axis 320 of the first mousehole340, the first tubular 605 may be translated vertically downward indirection 626 to place the first tubular 605 in the first mousehole 340.After securing the first tubular 605 in the first mousehole 340, thecomponents including the engagement head 109 and stabilizer 111, mayreturn to the starting positions as shown in FIG. 6A.

FIG. 6D includes a schematic illustration of a fourth sequence foroperating a tubular lift system in accordance with an embodiment.Notably, FIG. 6D is substantially similar to FIG. 6A, however a portionof the mousehole assembly 113 has changed position relative to theposition illustrated in FIG. 6A. Notably, the mousehole assembly 113 hasengaged a drive device 608 to shift a position of the first mousehole340 and second mousehole 341 relative to the position of the engagementhead 109 and the engagement head axis 310. More particularly, the secondmousehole 341 has a central axis 330 that is aligned with apredetermined vertical axis to facilitate delivery of a second tubular655 to the second mousehole 341.

The second tubular 655 can be delivered to the second mousehole 341using the same sequence of processes used to deliver the first tubular605 to the first mousehole 340 as illustrated in FIG. 6A-6C.

FIG. 6E includes a schematic illustration of a fifth sequence foroperating a tubular lift system in accordance with an embodiment. Asillustrated, a third tubular 665 is provided in a substantially verticalposition and aligned with the second tubular 655 in accordance with anembodiment. The movement of the third tubular 665 can be completed usingthe same sequence of processes as provided in FIGS. 6A-6C. Asillustrated in FIG. 6E the third tubular 665 can have a longitudinalaxis aligned with the longitudinal axis of the second tubular 655.Furthermore, it will be appreciated that a second rabbit associated withthe second mousehole 341 may be actuated to adjust the exposure lengthof the second tubular 655 such that the second tubular 655 is at asuitable height above the drill floor 103 to facilitate use of the ironroughneck 112.

FIG. 6F includes a schematic illustration of a sixth sequence foroperating a tubular lift system in accordance with an embodiment. Asillustrated, after aligning the third tubular 665 and the second tubular655 with each other, the tubulars 665 and 655 may be joined togetherusing an iron roughneck 112. Notably, the third tubular 665 may bemaintained in a stabilized state during the joining via the engagementhead 109.

FIG. 6G includes a schematic illustration of a seventh sequence foroperating a tubular lift system in accordance with an embodiment. Asillustrated, third tubular 665 and the second tubular 655 have beenjoined to form a double 669. After joining the third tubular 665 withthe second tubular 655 to form the double 669, the engagement head 109may lift the double 669 from the second mousehole 341 and align it withthe first tubular 605 in the first mousehole 340.

Notably, during the lifting of the double 669 from the second mousehole341 a portion of the mousehole assembly 113 may change position tofacilitate aligning the longitudinal axis of double 669 with thelongitudinal axis of the first tubular 605 and the central axis 320 ofthe first mousehole 340. Alignment between the double 669 and the firsttubular 605 can facilitate joining of the double 869 with the firsttubular 605. As such, at least a portion of the mousehole assembly 113may be returned to an original position as illustrated in FIG. 6A.

As further illustrated, the system can include one of more alignmentelements 671 and 672 configured to engage a portion of the double 669 orone or the tubulars of the double 669 to facilitate maintaining adesired stabilized state and low angular variation with respect to apredetermined vertical axis. The use of the alignment elements 671 and672 can facilitate maintaining a small angular variation of the tubularwith respect to the predetermined vertical axis during translation ofthe tubular along the predetermined vertical axis.

In at least one embodiment, the alignment element 671 can include aroller configured to rotate in response to translation of the tubularover a surface of the roller. It will be appreciated that the system mayutilize more than one alignment element, and particularly more than onealignment element in the form or rollers, such as illustrated in FIG.6G. For example, in at least one embodiment, the tubular (e.g., thedouble 669) may be disposed between two or more alignment elements 671and 672 in the form of rollers configured to maintain the substantiallyvertical position of the tubular and furthermore provide a stabilizedstate to the tubular while it is being translated along thepredetermined vertical axis and delivered to the mousehole assembly 113.Moreover, in one embodiment, the alignment element 671 can include adampening member 673, such as a spring, configured to absorb shocks anddampen forces that could be transferred to the tubular and causemisalignment between the tubular and the predetermined vertical axis. Asfurther illustrated, the alignment element 672 may also include adampening member 674, such as a spring configured to absorb shocks anddampen forces that could be transferred to the tubular and causemisalignment between the tubular and the predetermined vertical axis.

In certain instances, at least one of the alignment elements 671 and 672may be movable between a first position and a second position. Forexample, in the first position the alignment element 671 and/or 672 maybe disengaged with the surface of the tubular (i.e., the double 669)such that there is distance between the surface of the alignment elementand an exterior surface of the tubular, as shown, for example in FIG.6J. However, in a second position, the alignment element 871 and/or 872may be moved into contact with the exterior surface of the tubular toengage and maintain the position of the tubular in the substantiallyvertical position.

FIG. 6H includes a schematic illustration of an eighth sequence foroperating a tubular lift system in accordance with an embodiment. Asillustrated, the process can include joining of the double 669 with thefirst tubular 605 in the first mousehole 340 to form a stand 675. Theprocess can further include initiating the removal of the stand 675 fromthe first mousehole 340 by translation of the engagement head 109 in thevertical direction 396 to lift the stand 675 from the mousehole assembly113.

FIG. 6I includes a schematic illustration of a ninth sequence foroperating a tubular lift system in accordance with an embodiment. Inparticular, the ninth sequence can include use of a griphead 500configured to engage a portion of the stand 675 from the engagement head109. The griphead 500 may be configured to engage the stand 675 andfacilitate lifting the stand 675 in the vertical direction 396 to astorage location above the drill floor 103.

FIG. 6J includes a schematic illustration of a tenth sequence forforming a stand of tubulars in accordance with an embodiment. Inparticular, the tenth sequence can include disengagement of thealignment elements 671 and 672 from the stand 675 after the griphead 500has securely engaged and grasped the stand 675.

FIG. 6K includes a schematic illustration of an eleventh sequence forforming a stand of tubulars in accordance with an embodiment. Inparticular, the eleventh sequence can include translation of the stand675 by the griphead 500 to a racker 115, which may be a storage locationfor the stand 675 prior to the stand being transported to the wellcenter 188 to be deployed in the drilling operation.

It will be appreciated that the griphead 500 may facilitate directdelivery of the stand to the well center 188 for incorporation into thedrilling operation. Any of the components and systems described hereincan be remotely operated by an operator positioned outside of the workzone 131 as described herein. Moreover, any of the components, systems,or processes herein can be automated and configured to conduct one ormore functions by actuation of a single switch. It will also beappreciated that a fewer or greater number of sequences may be used inthe process of stand-building. Alternative sequences and combinations ofprocesses or components may be utilized without deviating from theembodiments herein.

In at least one embodiment, the process of building a stand of tubularsincluding at least three tubular joined together can be completed in anaverage stand-building time that is at least about 10% less than anaverage stand-building time of conventional equipment.

The embodiments of the present application represent a departure fromthe state of the art. Notably, the embodiments herein demonstrate a newcombination of components, systems, and processes facilitating improvedmanipulation of tubulars in stand-building operations, particularly onjack-up rigs and other platforms having limited space. Unlike prior artmethods of manipulating tubulars that rely on heavy, large, andexpensive HTV arms, which have known limits with respect to manipulatinga tubular with low angular variation the present embodiments have clearadvantages in terms of safety, weight, cost, speed, and size. Moreover,in comparison to conventional systems utilizing roughnecks ordirect-operated (i.e., manned) tools to secure swinging tubulars, theembodiments herein include a combination of features that facilitatesafe and efficient handling of tubulars. The combination of features caninclude, but is not limited to, the features of the engagement head, thefeatures of the stabilizer, the features of the alignment elements, thefeatures of the mousehole assembly, and the combination of the featuresworking in concert.

As used herein, the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “includes, ”“including, ” “has, ” “having,” or any other variation thereof, areintended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process,method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of features is notnecessarily limited only to those features but may include otherfeatures not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method,article, or apparatus. Further, unless expressly stated to the contrary,“or” refers to an inclusive-or and not to an exclusive-or. For example,a condition A or B is satisfied by any one of the following: A is true(or present) and B is false (or not present), A is false (or notpresent) and B is true (or present), and both A and B are true (orpresent).

The use of “a” or “an” is employed to describe elements and componentsdescribed herein. This is done merely for convenience and to give ageneral sense of the scope of the invention. This description should beread to include one or at least one and the singular also includes theplural, or vice versa, unless it is clear that it is meant otherwise.

Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used hereinhave the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill inthe art to which this invention belongs. The materials, methods, andexamples are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting. To theextent not described herein, many details regarding specific materialsand processing acts are conventional and may be found in textbooks andother sources within the scintillation and radiation detection arts.

The above-disclosed subject matter is to be considered illustrative, andnot restrictive, and the appended claims are intended to cover all suchmodifications, enhancements, and other embodiments, which fall withinthe true scope of the present invention. Thus, to the maximum extentallowed by law, the scope of the present invention is to be determinedby the broadest permissible interpretation of the following claims andtheir equivalents, and shall not be restricted or limited by theforegoing detailed description.

The Abstract of the Disclosure is provided to comply with Patent Law andis submitted with the understanding that it will not be used tointerpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. In addition, inthe foregoing Detailed Description of the Drawings, various features maybe grouped together or described in a single embodiment for the purposeof streamlining the disclosure. This disclosure is not to be interpretedas reflecting an intention that the claimed embodiments require morefeatures than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as thefollowing claims reflect, inventive subject matter may be directed toless than all features of any of the disclosed embodiments. Thus, thefollowing claims are incorporated into the Detailed Description of theDrawings, with each claim standing on its own as defining separatelyclaimed subject matter.

What is claimed is:
 1. A system for use in subterranean operationscomprising: a mousehole assembly comprising a cavity including: a firstmousehole; a second mousehole spaced apart from the first mousehole; anda mechanism configured to change a position of at least one of the firstmousehole and second mousehole within the cavity.
 2. A system for use inin subterranean operations comprising: a mousehole assembly having afirst position and a second position, the mousehole assembly furthercomprising a first mousehole and a second mousehole different from eachother, wherein in the first position the first mousehole defines a firstcentral axis and in the second position the first mousehole defines asecond central axis different than the first central axis.
 3. A systemfor use in subterranean operations comprising: a predetermined verticalaxis configured to be associated with a longitudinal axis of a tubular;and a mousehole assembly comprising at least a first mousehole and asecond mousehole, wherein the mousehole assembly is configured toselectively move and align one of a first central axis of the firstmousehole and the second central axis of the second mousehole with thepredetermined vertical axis.
 4. The system of any of claims 1, 2, and 3,wherein the mousehole assembly comprises a cavity in a rig floor and amousehole structure comprising the first mousehole and second mousehole.5. The system of claim 4, wherein the mousehole structure is configuredto be moved with the cavity.
 6. The system of claim 4, wherein the firstmousehole and the second mousehole are configured to be movedsimultaneously with respect to each other.
 7. The system of any ofclaims 1, 2, and 3, wherein the mousehole is configured to translate adistance of at least about 0.1 (CL), wherein CL represents a length ofthe cavity.
 8. The system of claim 7, wherein the mousehole isconfigured to translate a distance of not greater than about 0.8 (CL).9. The system of any of claims 1, 2, and 3, wherein the mouseholeassembly comprises at least one actuator configured to move at least aportion of the mousehole.
 10. The system of claim 9, wherein theactuator is configured to selectively move a mousehole structurecomprising the first mousehole and the second mousehole from a firstposition to a second position within the cavity.
 11. The system of anyof claims 1, 2, and 3, wherein the mousehole assembly is configured tohave relative movement to a surface in a work zone, the relativemovement including at least one of rotation, translation, and acombination thereof.
 12. The system of any of claims 1, 2, and 3,wherein the mousehole assembly is disposed within a work zone.
 13. Thesystem of any of claims 1, 2, and 3, wherein the mousehole assembly isconfigured to have controlled movement operated as an automated system.14. The system of claims 1, 2 and 3, wherein the mousehole assemblycomprises a cover configured to cover a portion of the cavity.
 15. Thesystem of claim 14, wherein the cover is configured to moved between afirst position and a second position relative to a first position andsecond position of the mousehole assembly.
 16. The system of any ofclaims 1, 2, and 3, wherein the mousehole assembly comprises a firstposition wherein the first mousehole is aligned with a predeterminedvertical axis and a second position wherein the first mousehole isdisplaced a distance from the predetermined vertical axis.
 17. Thesystem of claim 16, wherein in the second position the second mouseholeis aligned with the predetermined vertical axis.
 18. The system of claim16, wherein in the first position the second mousehole is displaced adistance from the predetermined vertical axis.
 19. The system for any ofclaims 1, 2, and 3, wherein the first mousehole comprises a first sensorconfigured to detect a size of a tubular configured to be disposedwithin the first mousehole.
 20. The system of claim 19, wherein thefirst mousehole is configured to adapt to tubulars of different sizes.